Two postseason contenders will clash on the Emerald Isle. Week 4 kicks off early with the first-ever NFL game in Dublin, as the Vikings take on the Steelers. In spite of several key injuries, Minnesota has earned a 2-1 record. The same is true of Pittsburgh, led by new quarterback Aaron Rodgers. Which of these two clubs will earn a victory in Ireland? Below, I’ve laid out my preview, prediction, and best bet for Sunday’s showdown between the Vikings and Steelers.
The Vikings are favored by 2.5 points (-115) over the Steelers, with the over/under set at 40.5 points. Which of these teams has the edge on DraftKings Sportsbook entering this contest?
Vikings vs. Steelers prediction, preview
To the surprise of no one, the Steelers have played a physical, ugly brand of football. However, the biggest difference between this team and previous seasons is the presence of Rodgers. The 41-year-old is no longer an elite quarterback, but he’s a clear upgrade over Pittsburgh’s recent passers. Through three games, the veteran has thrown for 586 yards and seven touchdowns to three interceptions.
#8 is supported on the ground by Jaylen Warren. In spite of his knee injury, the running back is going to play on Sunday. He’s accounted for 274 yards from scrimmage on 54 touches so far. Pittsburgh may need to lean on Warren if they’re going to win this game. Minnesota has surrendered 4.5 yards per rush attempt, tied for the tenth-worst mark in football. In comparison, the Vikings have allowed only 141.3 passing yards per game, third-best in the NFL.
Minnesota’s defensive dominance was on full display during last week’s 48-10 throttling of the Bengals. The team forced five turnovers and held Cincinnati to just 171 total yards. Still, a strong showing from the Purple People Eaters isn’t all too surprising. The biggest shock was on offense with the play of Carson Wentz. The former Eagles quarterback was forced into action due to JJ McCarthy’s ankle injury. He didn’t miss a beat, throwing for 174 yards and two touchdowns. Wentz is set to start once again on Sunday.
All things considered, there may not be too much difference right now between McCarthy and Wentz. If anything, the veteran might have a better chance at dissecting a formidable Steelers defense. It helps that he’ll have an All-Pro in Justin Jefferson at wide receiver. Another name to watch for Minnesota is Jordan Mason. Aaron Jones (hamstring) is injured, leaving his backup with full control of the run game. This season, Mason has gained 215 rushing yards and two touchdowns on 40 carries (5.4 YPC). Pittsburgh has allowed 139.3 rushing yards per game this season, tied for the league’s sixth-worst mark.
Vikings vs. Steelers pick, best bet
Pittsburgh is a bit of a paper tiger, having eked out one-possession wins over the Jets and Patriots. Mike Tomlin’s crew remains well-coached, but they remain a notch below true contender status. The Vikings haven’t been perfect either, but Sunday’s trouncing of the Bengals should give this group confidence. Ultimately, a mediocre run defense could be what dooms the Steelers. Expect a low-scoring Minnesota triumph in Dublin.
